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38Tn Congress, ) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. 
"ession. f 

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Copy 1 

GENERAL G. W. MORGAN'S REPORT. 



( Ex. Doc. 
\ No. 94. 




L E T TE E 



THE SECRETARY OF ¥AR 



IN ANSWER TO 



A resolution of the House of Representatives, transmitting Major General G. 
W. Morgan's report of' the occupation of Cumberland gap. 



May 27, 1864. — Read and ordered to be printed. 



"War Dfpartment, 

Washington City, May 27, 1864. 

Sir : In compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives, I have 
the honor to transmit, herewith, a copy of Brigadier General G. W. Morgan's 
report of the occupation of Cumberland gap by the forces under his command, 
in April, 1862. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

EDWIN M. STANTON, 

Secretary of War. 
Hon. Schuyler Colfax, 

SpeaTcer of the House of Representatives, Washington. 



Headquarters 7th Division of the Army of the Ohio, 

Cumberland Gap, June 22, 1862. 

Colonel: On the 28th of March last I was assigned by Major General 
Buel to the command of this division, and directed to concentrate my force at 
Cumberland ford, and to take Cumberland gap. 

At that time the roads, leading from Crab Orchard and Mount Vernon to 
Cumberland ford, were almost impassable, and from three to four miles a day 
was the ordinary distance made by small trains of twelve wagons. On my way 
up I came from Lexington in an open buggy, in order to move forward as 
rapidly as possible. At many places the narrow roads, walled in by the 
mountains, had become torrents, and sometimes the horses were obliged to 
swim. It was the rainy season, and these facts are only mentioned to convey 
some idea of the difficulties this command had to overcome. 



>0 j^ 
2 REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. ^ ^^ ^ 

On arriving in the Cumberland valley, I found the country entirely exhausted 
by the occupation of Carter's brigade, and by the ravages committed by the 
enemy. It was necessary to haul forage for thirty, forty, and fifty miles, and 
at last from a distance of eighty and ninety miles. 

It was under such circumstances that I concentrated and organized the 7th 
division. I found six guns, and increased the number to. twenty-two — four of 
which are Parrott siege guns. A floating bridge was built upon the Cumber- 
land river by Lieutenant Edge, of the 16th Ohio, under the supervision of 
Colonel De Courcy, and means were adopted to supply the troops with fresh 
meat, which some of them had not tasted for several months, and they were 
thi-eatcned with scurvy. 

Regiments were armed with guns of various calibres, and there was a scarcity of 
ammunition even for them. A new distribution of arms was made, worthless ones 
were replaced by effective weapons, and a supply of ammunition was obtained. 

I reached Cumberland ford on the II th of April, and made a reconnoissance 
of the enemy's position at Cumberland gap. It was evident that the enemy 
had grouped too many works on their left, and depended too much on the 
natural strength of their right. Six hundred yards to the right of Fort Pitts 
I observed a knob Avbich commanded that fort and Fort i\Iallory, and I was 
satisfied that that hill once in our possession and occupied by siege guns, the 
gap was ours. I made a requisition for, and obtained, two 20 -pounder and two 
30-pounder Parrott guns, but before their arrival I ordered an armed recon- 
noissance to be made by the brigades of Carter and De Courcy, with directions 
to avoid an exchange of shots if possible. However, the enemy attacked the 
reconnoitring party, and a skirmish ensued, in which we lost one man mor- 
tally, and several slightly wounded. The loss of the enemy was seven killed 
and eight wounded. The rebel papers announced that our loss was 150 killed 
and 300 wounded, and that their loss was 30. This statement was untrue, both 
as to th'feir loss and our own. 

Before the arrival of our siege guns. Engineer Lee, of the rebel forces, con- 
structed a strong work, protected by rifle-pits, upon the summit to the right of 
Fort Pitts; and, convinced that the position could only be carried by immense 
loss of life, with keen regret I abandoned all idea of attacking the place from 
the front, and resolved to execute a flank movement and force the enemy to 
abandon his position — the strongest I have ever seen, except Gibraltar — or fight 
us in the field. Such a movement was full of difliculties. It was universally 
believed that the route through Cumberland gap was the only one practicable, 
within a range of eighty miles, for the march of an army with cannon ; and as it 
was, our horses were frequently without forage, and the troops on half rations. 
To have three days' rations ahead was a subject of rejoicing. 

On the east of Cumberland gap the mountains rise up like a gigantic 
wall, on one side nearly perpendicular; while on the west were Baptist, Rogers's, 
and Big Creek gaps, through which small wagons, lightly lad an, had been 
known to pass, but they were generally used as bridle paths, and were now 
strongly blockaded. 

In order, at the same time, to threaten Clinton, one of the enemy's depots of 

•bsistence, and to divert his attention from my real plan, I established Briga- 
dier General Spears, with three regiments of his command, at the commence- 
ment of the eighteen miles of blockade, at the foot of the Pine mountain, and 
on the route to Big Creek gap, and thirty-five miles west of Cumberland gap 
As I had anticipated, the enemy immediately occupied the front of Big Creek 
gap with two strong brigades of infantry, two regiments of cavalry, and two 
batteries of artillery. 

I now determined to cross the Pine mountains, and pass the Cumberland 
chain at Rogers's gap, (which is twenty miles Avest of Cumberland gap, fifteen 
miles east of Big Creek gap, and thirty-nine miles southwest of Cumberland 



REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 6 

ford, and debMiiclies into Po\veirs valley, immediately opposite to the moutli of 
the road leading to Knoxville ; this position once occupied, Avonld threaten 
Knoxville, Cumberland gap, and Clinton, or three important points, in three 
different directions,) with the brigades of De Courcyand Coburn, (now Baird's,) 
and to leave the brigade of General Carter to guard Cumberland ford. It was 
my determination to attack the enemy in front, while Spears, with his brigade, 
would pass through Elk gap and take him in the rear. 

The advanced guard had crossed the Cumberland river to execute this 
manoeuvre, when one of my scouts came in and announced that Barton's com- 
mand had withdrawn from Big creek, and was then encamped near Cumberland 
gap. For the moment the execution of my plan was postponed, but not aban- 
doned. 

I now determined to withdraw my entire force from Cumberland ford, and to 
cause the sides of the Pine mountain to be mined, so that an hundred thousand 
tons of rocks and trees could be hurled into the valley, should the enemy at- 
tempt to strike at our line of supplies. The mines were constructed by Captain 
S. S. Lyon, but they Avere never sprung. 

On the 6th instant the march was again resumed. Munday's cavalry and 
Garrard's 3d Kentucky infantry constituted the advance guard, followed by 
the sieg(^ guns, Foster's battery, and De Courcy's brigade ; next the brigade of 
Baird, with Wetmore's battery; Carter's brigade and Lanphere's battery brought 
up the rear. 

Heavy fatigue parties were constantly employed in front, in making and re- 
pairing roads, which were again blockaded by Captain Lyon after the rear 
guard had passed. It was amusing to witness the astonishment of the people 
at the passage of enormous cannon over roads regarded by them as difficult and 
dangerous for lightly laden wagons. Old men, women, and children flocked to 
the roadside, and everywhere we were welcomed witli smiles and tears of joy. 

Too much praise cannot be awarded to Captain Jacob T. Foster, 1st Wis- 
consin battery, chief of artillery. As an artillerist of energy and skill, he will 
not unfavorably compare with any officer in the service. 

The corps under his command is also deserving of the highest commendation. 
Nor can I pass unnoticed the heroic toil and hardy endurance of the parties de- 
tailed from the infantry to aid Captain Foster in advancing his guns along the 
cliffs of the Pine and Cumberland mountains, for without their assistance at the 
block and tackle and the drag-ropes, the march could not have been continued. 

The duties devolving upon Carter were both difficult and dangerous, and 
were executed with skill and energy. The narrow mountain roads were cut 
into gullies by the brigades, which had already gone forward, and there might 
have been a descent from Cumberland gap. 

On the 10th instant the brigades of De Courcy and, Baird encamped on the 
north side of the Cumberland mountains, and on the following day, after well- 
conducted marches, they descended into Powell's valley, and bivouacked in a 
dense forest, which entirely masked their position. Colonel De Courcy, whose 
brigade led the advance, displayed throughout the entire march skill and ability 
of a high order, and removed blockades and made roads for the passage of the 
other troops. 

On the 9th instant I directed General Spears to clear the blockade from the 
Big Creek gap, and to advance by the Valley road to join me at Rogers's gap. 

On the 10th instant I instructed him to send a party of two hundred men, 
under a cool-headed and daring officer, to burn the railroad bridges over the 
Tennessee at London. The expedition was undertaken, but was not successful, 
as London was occupied by two regiments of the enemy ; however, the party 
fell back without loss. 

On the 9th instant I received at Lambdin's a telegram from Major General 
Buel, informing me that Negley was fully employed in Middle Tennessee, and 



4 REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

could give me no assistance ; that he was opposite Chattanooga, but that his 
stay could not be depended upon ; and that the force now in Tennessee was so 
small that no offensive operations against East Tennessee could be attempted, 
and there! ore that I must depend mainly on my own resources. I replied that 
it was too late to change my plans ; that my advance guard Avas already at the 
foot of the Cumberland mountains, and that a bold and determined policy on 
my part was the only prudent one. 

On the 11th instant I descended the south side of the Cumberland mountains 
with De Courcy's advanced guard. The entire day and the following day were 
occupied in making the passage of the mountain bridge — miscalled a "gap" — 
and at dark on the night of the 12th instant some of the cannon had not reached 
the summit of the mountain. 

On that night, while in the act of giving directions as to the destruction of 
the railroad bridges at Strawberry plains and Mossy creek, I received the 
second telegram of General Buel, dated on the 9th instant, as also that of the 
date of the 10th instant. It had been my intention to have advanced against 
Cumberland gap on the following day with the brigades of Spears, Baird, and 
De Courcy, but I no longer felt at liberty to do so, and ordered a countermarch 
upon Williamsburg. I despatched three couriers to General Spears, one of 
whom reached him, ordering to fall back. 

On the morning of the 13th I was again at Lambdin's, to which point I 
hastened to meet Carter's column. Soon after my arrival I received a note from 
Colonel De Courcy, whose brigade had not yet been able to leave Powell's 
valley in consequence of the narrow road being blocked up by the 30 pounders, 
which had not yet descended the mountain, saying that there was a rumor that 
the enemy was evacuating Cumberland gap. I also received a telegram from 
Major General Bucl, dated on the 11th instant at his headquarters beyond 
Corinth, stating that Mitchell was instructed, as far as possible, to threaten 
Chattanooga ; but that I Avould " have to depend mainly upon my own ability 
to beat the force opposed to me." 

Acting upon this information,' and the telegram last mentioned, which I con- 
strued into a permission to act on my own discretion, I determined to resume 
the offensive. 

Carter was still at Lambdin's, but the head of his column was twelve miles 
in advance. I instructed him to proceed to join me at Rogers's gap by way of 
Big Creek gap, and directed General Spears to await his arrival and then march 
up the valley to join me. Baird's brigade, which had returned to Lambdin's, 
was ordered to again breast the mountain, and, inspired by the admirable ex- 
ample of their commander, and roused at the prospect of going to the front, they 
cheerfully obeyed the order. 

Early on the morning of the 14th I was again in Powell's valley, and Baird's 
brigade arrived there on the 15th, and marched down the mountain to the air 
of "Dixie," played by the band of Coburn's 33d Indiana. 

I here received a despatch from Spears, enclosing a letter from Colonel Carter, 
of the rebel cavalry, dated Cumberland gap, June 11, 1862, and addressed to 
Major Bean, as follows : 

"Major Bean: Maintain your position, if you possibly can, until to-morrow. 
The general intends sending a force of artillery and infantry down the valley, 
early in the morning, to attack the enemy. General Barton's force is on its way 
back into the valley. Despatch to Colonel Allston, immediately, the intention 
of the general to move a force down the valley in the morning, and tell him that 
General Stevenson wishes him (Colonel Allston) to despatch to General Barton 
the same thing immediately. The despatch should go by way of Clinton if 
possible, as General Barton will soon move by that route. This post will not 
be evacuated — at least not now. 

""By command of Lieutenant Colonel J. E. Carter. 

"J. D. CARTER, Adjutant." 



REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 5 

The enemy was sorely in doubt as to what course to pursue, and evidently 
greatly exaggerated ray strength, which is reported in the rebel papers at 50,000 
men. 

I had now at the foot of Rogers's gap the brigades of Baird and De Courcy, 
and as the valley was occupied by the enemy's cavalry, I ore* red the supply 
trains to the rear, and was compelled to subsist upon the foe. I felt all the 
responsibility of my position, for I had adopted my plan of operations contrary 
to the opinions of three of my brigade commanders, all of whom I hold in high 
esteem. I had not the opportunity to consult General Spears, who was at the 
foot of Pine mountain, when I determined upon the line of operations I had re- 
solved to pursue. 

Hence 1 was anxious for the arrival of Spears and Carter, the head of whose 
columns were soon seen to approach from the direction of Fincastle. Spears 
marched without wagons and without tents, and it would be doing injustice, alike 
to him and to myself, not to express my high appreciation of the prompt and 
soldierly energy he has always displayed in aiding me to execute my plans. 
His brigade has acted an important part in the strategic game which has been 
played along these mountains during the past six weeks. 

Immediately upon the arrival of Carter and Spears, 1 wished to advance upon 
the enemy, understood to be in position at Thomas's farm, eight or nine miles 
on the valley road towards the gap, but Carter had performed a most trying and 
difficult march of seventy-five miles, and Spears had cleared the blockade at 
Big Creek gap immediately before marching. One day wat^, therefore, devoted 
to rest and preparations for the struggle expected to take place on the following 
day. 

Herewith I have the honor to enclose my order of march and plan of attack, 
and also the reports of brigade commanders and separate corps. 

I determined to advance upon two parallel roads, the old and the new Valley 
roads, the latter of Avhich starts from the Knoxville road, nearly opposite 
Rogers's gap, and intersects the old Valley road at Thomas's, as indicated in the 
accompanying map embracing the square of my operations. 

The hour designated for the march was one o'clock on the morning of the 
18th, and by three o'clock in the morning the rear guards of the two columns 
were on the march. I feel that I have a right to be proud of the admirable 
order and promptness Avith Avhich the noble troops of my division marched out 
to meet a foe they had good reason to believe was much stronger numerically 
than themselves. And so I believed myself, but I felt the assurance of victory, 
though I did not underrate either the gallantry or skill of the enemy. 

Had Kirby Smith been personally in command, we should have had a battle, 
but it was evident to me that the actual general in command felt vi\icertain of 
the ground upon which he stood. Rains, a gallant and dashing officer, was in 
our immediate front, and Barton was a few miles from our right flank, while 
Stevenson was in supporting distance. 

But on arriving at Thomas's we found that the enemy had retreated in hot 
haste, and, after a short halt, the march was resumed, and the advanced brigade, 
under De Courcy, took possession of the gap at about 2 o'clock p. m. — the rear 
guard of the enemy having evacuated the fortress at 10 a. m. The same after- 
noon the national colors were unfurled, and a national salute was fired from the 
summit of the gap by De Courcy's brigade, and by a general order each brigade 
was authorized to unfurl its colors, amid the roar of cannon, upon the pinnacle 
of the mountain, for the honor belongs equally to all. 

Well, the gap is ours, and without the loss of a single life. I have since care- 
full}' examined the works, and I believe that the place could have been taken in 
a few days' struggle from the froiit ; but to have done so, I should have left the 
bones of two-thirds of my gallant comrades to bleach upon the mountain side. 
And after all, this fastness, all stained with heroic blood, would only have been, 



6 REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

what it now is, <i fortress of the Union, from whose highest peak floats the stars 
and stripes. The result secured by strategy is h-ss brilliant than a victory ob- 
tained amid the storm and hurricane of battle; but humanity has gained all that 
glory has lost, and I am satisfied. 

I am, and the country should be, grateful to Brigadier Generals Spears, Baird, 
and Carter, and to Colonel De Courcy, for their able and efficient services, and 
to the gallant officers and soldiers of their respective commands. 

Three of my brigades are commanded by brigadier generals, and the fourth 
by Colonel John F. De Courcy, whom I again recommend for the commission 
of brigadier general. He is an accomplished and well-trained soldier, who came 
from a distant land to share the fortunes of the Union in this unnatural struggle 
against her existence. Generosity and justice alike demand his promotion. 

Great credit is also due to commanders of regiments, to whose earnest aid and 
cheerful com2)liance with every order I owe so much. I cannot but feel some 
regret that they had not an opportunity to acquire in the field the laurels which 
they arc so worthy to wear; but I refer you to the reports of the commanders 
of separate corps fir a narrative of the meritorious services of those officers. 

In this connexion I must mention, in terms of commendation. Lieutenant 
Colonel Ileuben ]\Iunday, with his battalion of Kentucky cavalry. This brave 
little band have performed the most arduous duties, without a murmur, doing 
picket duty and acting scouts for the entire division. They were also very 
efficient as advanced and rear guards, on the march to this place. 

The highest praise is also due to my personal staflP, for their unremitting devo- 
tion to the interests of the service, and I therefore commend Captain C. O. 
Joline, assistant adjutant general, chief of staff"; Captain S. S. Lyon, acting 
topographical engineer; Major M. C. Garber, division quartermaster, and Captain 
G. M. Adams, C. S., for the immense aid they have given me during the period 
of my command ; and had their services been less zealous and efficient, I could 
not have advanced. Lieutenants E. D. Saunders, C. S. Medary, and 11. Mont- 
gomery, my aides-de-camp, are also commendable to the kindly notice of the 
government. 

My special thanks arc also due to Captain S. B. Brown, assistant quarter- 
master at Lexington, Kentucky, (who has performed, to my great satisfaction, 
duties which should have devolved on at least three officers,) Captain J. H. 
Ferry, assistant quartermaster at Flat Lick, Kentucky, who suggested to me, by 
telegraph, an excellent diversion which he proposed to make in my favor, by 
marching a force of convalescent soldiers to the front of the gap, as though in- 
tending an assault, while I was attacking the place in the rear. 

I am also deeply indebted to Lieutenant H. G. Fisher, and his corps of signal 
officers ; to Lieutenant C. H. Rogers, of the 1st Tennessee, for many acts of 
daring service ; and to Captain W. G. Fuller, superintendent of the military 
telegraph. He has always been efficient, and his telegraphic line has nearly 
kept pace with the advance of my column. 

It affords me great pleasure to indorse all that Colonel De Courcy has said iu 
commendation of his acting brigade quartermaster. Lieutenant J. D. Stubbs, 
42d regiment Ohio volunteers. 

Nor can I close this report without expressing my deep obligations to Captain 
W. F. Patterson and the men of his command. He has rendered me constant 
and invaluable services, during the two past months, in making roads and con- 
structing bridges on the various routes upon which my troops have moved, and 
supplies have been received. 

His company was organized by the military board of Kentucky, but from 
some cause was not mustered into the service of the United States, though 
it has been performing the most arduous services, under the command of dif- 
ferent generals of the United States army. General Thomas detailed Captain 
Patterson's command on extra duty, while lie commanded in the vicinity of 



EEPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 7 

Snmorsot, and fnv more than two months lie has been discharging simiLar duty 
under my command. His company has never been paid, and I respectfully 
request authority to muster Captain Patterson and his company into the service 
of the United States. 

Had the enemy not evacuated, I shouhl have taken up a position two miles 
in his real', and pounded him with my heavy guns, and cut off his supplies, 
until he should be forced to abandon his stronghold, and give us a fair fight, in 
an open field. 

I have the honor to be, sir, verv respectfully, yoi;r obedient servant, 

GEORGE W. MORGAN, 
Brigadier General of Volunteers, Commanding. 

Colonel James B. Fry, 

CJiief of Staff, Florence, Alabama. 



Headquarters 7th Division, Army of the Ohio, 

Camf near Rogers's Gaj), Tennessee, June 17, 1S62. 
General Orders, \ 
No. 42. I 
The column will march to meet the enemy to-morrow morning in the following 
order • 

I. Carter's brigade with Lamphere's battery, and the two 20-pounders 
and one hundred cavalry, under command of Lieutenant Colonel Munday, will 
march at one o'clock, on the new Valley road, entering it at its commencement 
on the Knoxville road, and proceed towards its intersection with the old Valley 
road. En route it will halt forty-five minutes for breakfast, at or near Kin- 
caid's, where water may be best obtained, after which time the march will be 
resumed with caution. 

II. The one hundred cavalry under Lieutenant Colonel Munday will be 
divided into two equal bodies of fifty inen each, one constituting the advance 
guard of cavalry and the other the rear guard. The advanced guard of cavalry 
will march six himdred paces in front of the advanced guard of infsintry, and 
the artillery Avill march between the advanced guard of five companies of infantry 
and the remaining five companies of the regiment from which the advanced 
guard is detailed. The rear guard of cavalry will march six hundred paces in 
rear of the rear guard of infantry, and each of the cavalry guards will throw 
out, the first to the front, the latter to the rear, ten videttes, who will march under 
command of a lieutenant or sergeant, in two's, each two separate from those in 
front and rear. 

This order of march will apply to all commands having cavalry. Mr. Kin- 
caid will act as guide to Carter's brigade. 

III. Spears's brigade, conducted by Jefferson Powell and Daniel Cupp, as 
guides, will march without wagons, at one o'clock, by the old Valley road to its 
intersection with the road leading from Alexander's across the Poor Valley ridge. 
Upon arriving at the opposite side of that ridge, the command will be halted for 
forty-five minutes, for rest and breakfast. After which. General Spears will 
proceed to the position which will be indicated by Powell, and there secretly 
and quietly place his men in ambush. After the opening of the battle, he will 
attack the enemy in his flank or rear, depending upon his position. The most 
absolute stillness is necessary to the success of this manreuvre. 

IV. General Spears will look well to the ammunition of his men, and see 
that every man carries at least eighty rounds upon his person. 

V. De Courcy's brigade, with Foster's battery and the two 30-pounder 
siege guns, and fifty cavalry as an advanced guard under Captain Roper, will 



8 REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

marcla at one and a half (Ij) o'clock on the old Valley road, parallel Avitli 
Carter's brio;ade, and will halt forty-five minutes for breakfast at Big Spring, 
five and a half miles east of Rogers's gap. 

VI. Baird's brigade will constitute the reserve, and will march at two o'clock, 
and halt forty-five minutes for breakfast and rest, when it will continue to 
march in rear of De Covircy's brigade. During the march. General Morgan 
will accompany General Baird at the head of his brigade. 

The cavalry under Captain Martin, ordered to report' to General Baird, will 
constitute the rear guard of cavalry, and will march six hundred paces in rear 
of the infantry, and will thi'OAv out towards the rear ten videttes, under a lieu- 
tenant or sergeant, who shall march in two's, each file of which will be sepa- 
rated twenty paces from the files in front and rear. 

Wetmore's battery and the two brass howitzers are assigned to the command 
of General Baird. 

VII. If possible, the men of all the commands will be required to fill their 
canteens with strong coffee to-night, for breakfast and supper on to-morrow. 
Each brigade will march Avith its ammunition wagons and ambulances, and one 
wagon to a brigade, laden with axes, spades, picks and saws, and all other 
wagons will be left under the care of the brigade quartermasters, who will be 
instructed by the brigade commanders to report for instructions to Major Garber, 
division quartermaster. The brigade of Spears v/ill march without wagons. 

VIII. All wagons not taken forward by their brigades will be formed and 
ready to march on the old Valley road, immediately in rear of Baird's brigade. 
On arriving at Big Spring, the division quartermaster will cauMe the wagons to 
be driven as close as possible to the base of the mountains, and if possible he 
Avill park them in the woods, and insist upon quiet and no fires. Major Garber 
will secure a guide for this purpose. 

IX. It is very probable that the enemy will seek to turn our position from 
one of the roads leading to Knoxville, and to embarrass any such movement it 
will be well for General Carter to cause the first Knoxville road to be examined, 
with reference to blockading the road. Captain Patterson with his company 
will be ordered to report to General Carter for fatigue duty. 

X. Should the occasion favor such a manoeuvre. General Carter will do well 
to threaten the enemy's left, taking care not to separate hitnSelf at too great a 
distance from the centre. 

XI. General Baird will station his cavalry guard at Big Spring, with orders 
to throw out horsemen to the rear for the distance of one mile. General Carter 
will adopt a similar precaution, at a point to be indicated by Mr. Kincaid, 
his guide. 

X.II. Should the enemy chai-ge, he should be boldly and fiercely charged, 
but not until he has come within fifty yards. His troops will then be blown, 
while ours will be fresh. 

XIII. It is a trick of the enemy to fall back, as if in retreat, in order to draw 
our troops into ambush. Prudence, combined with valor, will reader both ex- 
pedients fruitless. 

XIV. The troops will be expected to carry two days' cooked provisions in 
their haversacks. 

XV. In consequence of intelligence just received, as to the supposed position 
of the enemy, paragraph III of general order No. 42 is hereby modified as fol- 
lows: 

Spears's brigade will march with ammunition wagons on the new Valley road, 
forty-five minutes after the rear of Carter's brigade has entered that road. En, 
route, General Spears will halt forty-five minutes for breakftist and rest, at or 
near Kincaid's, where the canteens of the troops must be filled with fresh water. 
Then General Spears will occupy the cross-road, connecting the new and old 
ValLey road beyond the Big Spring, with two regiments, to be held in reserve 



EEPOET OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 3 

while lie will hold his other two regiments on or in the neighborhood of the new 
Valley road, as the circumstances may require. 

It is desired that the battle be opened and kept up with ai-tillery as long as 
possible, so as to compel the enemy's infantry to leave their positions. 

By command of General Morgan. 

CHARLES 0. JOLINE, A. A. G. 

Headquarters 7th Division, Army of the Ohio, 

Cumberland Gap, June 22, 1862. 

A true copy. 

CHARLES S. MEDARY, A. D. C. 

Headquarters Artillery, 7th Division Army of the Ohio, 

Cumberland Gap, June 21, 1862. 

Dear Sir : I have the honor to report that, according to Ceneral Order No. 39» . 
the line of march was taken up for the attack of Cumberland gap by the siege 
battery, consisting of two twenty and two thirty-pounders Parrott guns, on 
Friday, June 6, 1862, under command of Lieutenant Webster, of Foster's 1st 
Wisconsin battery. 

Preparations were made as extensively as possible in this part of the country, 
where it is very difficult to find machinery of any kind, and doubly difficult for 
the movement of a heavy train and ordnance, connected with a siege battery of 
Parrott rifle guns. Machinery for the movement of this battery over steep ascents 
and descents consisted of about 800 feet of inch and 100 feet of 1^-inch rope, 
three large and two small snatch-blocks, one double and one single tackle-blocks. 
This was all the tackle of any kind that could be obtained in tii^e to be of any 
use to move without hindrance to the forces of this division. 

To move this battery a distance of forty miles over the Cumberland moun- 
tains, and over roads considered impassable by the enemy for light artillery, 
seemed a Herculean task, at which the heart would almost shrink from under- 
taking, for many of the ascents would form an angle of thirty-five degrees (35^) 
with a horizontal plane, and this to be overcome, knowing that we were in many 
instances to make a corresponding descent. 

On the following day Foster's 1st Wisconsin battery, under command of 
Lieutenant John D. Anderson, moved forward, and, being a light battery, met 
with but little difficulty the first four miles. 

The 9th Ohio battery, commanded by Lieutenant Barrows, followed upon the 
succeeding day with similar success. 

Two hundred men from the infantry were detailed to assist in overcoming the 
steep ascents and descents, which was to be done by ropes and pulleys. 

The ropes and pulleys were in constant use or readiness, and the men were 
obliged to be constantly on the alert, for the ascents were not only steep, but 
along sideling places, whei*e even the gun-carriages once overturned, they would 
have fallen over precipitous rocks, varying in heighth from one hundred to five 
hundred feet. 

In many instances were the turns in the road more than at right angles, and 
this up steep sideling ascents, rendering it almost impossible to turn Avith teams ; 
at many times was the whole force, both of men and horses, used upon the same 
rope. 

On arriving at the top of the Cumberland mountains the men and horses 
seemed nearly exhausted, many of the horses being entirely broken down, and 
will be worthless hereafter. Both men and horses had been upon short rations 
and forage, and it was impossible for subsistence and forage trains to follow 
close upon the troops over such terribly rugged roads. 

Many of my command have been the overland route to California, and all 



10 EEPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

concede there was nothing; to compare with these steep ascents and descents on 
the route. 

About 12 m., of June 10, the siege battery commenced the ascent of the 
mountain on the northern side, via Rogers's Gap road, which had been blockaded 
by Zollicoft'er's troops, and was cut out before us, by command of Colonel De 
Courcy, commanding the 2Gth brigade. This road was a mere bridle-path, 
and much credit is due the troops under Colonel De Courcy for their hard 
labor in removing the blockade and constructing the road. 

The 9th Ohio battery. Captain Wetmore.folloM'ed immediately in rear of the siege 
battery, and had much difficulty in ascending the steep declivity of this mountain, 
for it can be considered nothing else, although called a " gap." At 6 p. m. the first 
piece of the siege battery arrived on the top of the mountain, and there halted 
for the closing up of the remaining pieces. After halting until late in the 
evening, all were closed up, and Wetmore's 9th Ohio battery allowed to pass 
and make the descent in advance. 

The 30-j)ounder guns being so heavy, weighing 8,000 pounds, were left 
at the top of the mountain, as the descent was too difficvilt to think for one mo- 
ment of moving them down in the night. The 20-pounders, being more 
nearly allied to light artillery, were moved down the mountain into I'owell's 
valley during the night, but not without difficulty, for in many instances would 
they have been whirled down the rocks but for the constant care and tugging 
at the ropes by all the men we had. 

Foster's 1st Wisconsin battery, which had been obliged to wait for an am- 
munition train to precede it up the mountain, started at 5 p. m., and after 
working hard through the night, without one moment's rest, and part of the 
time in almost total darkness, (the moon being eclipsed,) without rations or 
forage for the last eighteen hours, arrived in Powell's valley without serious in- 
jury, only overturning a battery wagon and breaking its trail, at 3^ o'clock a. 
m. on the 12th June, 1862. 

This was the most difficult part of the mountain to overcome that we had 
encountered. The road was winding, narrow, very stony and steep, and all 
the entire descent very sideling ; so much so that we were constantly in im- 
minent danger of being precipitated down the almost perpendicular banks, over 
jagged rocks, for several hundred feet, in which case it would have been sure 
death to man or beast. 

On the 12th of June we were ordered to countermarch, recross the mountain, 
and move to Williamsburg, Kentucky. W^hen this order was made known to 
the men, they desired rather to shed their blood in Tennessee, and leave their 
bones bleaching in Powell's valley, than to retrace their steps over the moun- 
tain; but like good soldiers they sadly but resolutely put their shoulders to the 
wheels literally, and commenced the ascent of the mountain upon the southern 
side. 

The 20-pounder Parrott guns were put in the advance, and started at ten 
o'clock. The road had become much worn and rutted, loose stones fallen into 
the track and filled it in places, which had to be removed, and \vhich rendered 
it almost impossible for the horses to get a foothold ; but after eleven hours' 
hard labor, the task was accomplished, and at 1 o'clock, June 13, camped at 
the foot of the mountain on the northern side. 

At daylight the siege battery started upon its march, and after marching 
seven miles was halted for further orders. Foster's battery followed the siege 
battery up the mountain, and arrived at its summit at midnight, and then halted 
the remainder of the night ; and before they had commenced the descent, for- 
tunately received orders to remain where they then were. 

Wetmore's 9th Ohio battery, on the 12th, were ordered to accompany a forage 
train in Powell's valley, and did not return in time to begin the ascent of the 
mountain that night, and on the morning of the 13th were ordered to remain 



EEPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 11 

where they were in Powell's valley, thus saving them the arduous labor of re- 
crossing the mountain. 

In the evening of the 13th of June orders Avere received to march back to 
Powell's valley ; upon hearing which the soldiers fairly yelled with delight, 
and seemed so anxious to return that they could hardly wait for the morning to 
come. 

Foster's battery being upon top of the mountain, had only to descend the 
southern slope, and Wetmore's 9th Ohio battery being in the valley, had only 
to remain there ; whereas the siege battery, twelve miles on its road to Wil- 
liamsburg, had both to climb and descend the mountain again. This battery 
reached the foot, on the northern side of the mountain, at 3 o'clock p. m. of the 
14th, and remained there the balance of the day for the purpose of shoeing 
horses. At 10 o'clock, June 15, the siege battery started up the hill, and at 
9.15 p. m. i-eported all down the mountain, safe in Powell's valley. The men 
and teams were completely exhausted, and men did not take their supper, be- 
ing too much fatigued to cook it. Both men and horses lay down to rest, and 
had they been obliged to have moved two miles further, many must have per- 
ished by the roadside. 

Lanphcre's Michigan battery took up their line of march with General Car- 
ter's brigade on June 11, and following a part of the way the same route, had 
similar difficulties to overcome. 

On June 13 crossed the Pine mountains, and only had the misfortune to 
break one caisson trail and two caisson wheels, and camped at night at Boston. 

On June 15 crossed Big Creek gap with considerable difficulty, being 
obliged to halt for three hours to repair a caisson trail which was broken in an 
impassable part of the road, and obliged the brigade to rest. 

On the 16th reached camp, near Rogers's gap. On going into camp an alarm 
was given upon supposition that the train was attacked, and column reversed and 
position taken in woods, where they remained until 10 p. m., Avhen they moved 
forward and went into camp. 

At li o'clock a. m., June 18, Foster's battery and the siege battery took up 
the line of march with the 26th brigade, under command of Colonel De Courcy ; 
Wetmore's battery with the 27th brigade, under command of Brigadier General 
Baird, and Lanphere's battery with the 24th brigade, under command of Briga- 
dier General Carter, for the purpose of marching on the enemy, who were en- 
camped about eight miles up Powell's valley from Rogers's gap, where they were 
said to be in considerable force ; but upon our arriving there, found they had 
fled with great rapidity. We then marched to Cumberland gap (which had 
been evacuated but a few hours previous) with Colonel De Courcy, and there 
Foster's battery saluted the stars and stripes with thirty-four guns. 

I cannot close my report without bringing to your favorable notice, as officers 
of special merit, Lieutenant Anderson and C B. Kimball, of Foster's 1st Wis- 
consin battery, and Lieutenant Webster, of same battery, commanding the 
siege battery ; Lieutenant Barrows, commanding the 9th Ohio battery, and Cap- 
tain Lanphere, of the Michigan battery, without whose valuable services but 
little of this arduous march of artillery could have been accomplished. 

Although we all would gladly have entered an encounter Avith the enemy, we, 
as officers of the artillery of this division, beheve that more good results will 
be derived from this bloodless victory than with an encounter, and acknowledge 
that strategy displays more military skill than fields stained with blood. 

Hoping we may always be victorious in support of our country, I am, most 
respectfully, your obedient servant, 

J. T. FOSTER, 
Captain 1st Wisconsin Battery, 
Ciiii'f of Artillery, 1th Division Army of the Cumberland. 

Captain Chas. O. Joline, A. A. G. 



12 EEPOKT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 



Headquarters 24th Division, 
Camp Cotterell, East Tennessee, June 23, 1862. 

Captain : I embrace this the earliest opportunity of submitting the following 
repoi't of the movement of the 24th brigade, from the 8th of June until our 
junction with the remaining brigades of the 7th division at Rogers's gap, on the 
afternoon of the 16th instant. 

In pursuance of General Order No. 39, of the 5th instant, I moved my com- 
mand on the Sth, consisting of the 1st, 2d, and 4th East Tennessee regiments, 
(which last was temporarily attached to my brigade,) Lanphere's battery, and a 
detachment of Lieutenant Colonel Munday's cavalry, under command of Cap- 
tain Roper, from Cumberland ford, and took up the position at the Moss House, 
(two miles on the Cumberland gap road,) indicated in said order. 

By order of the commanding general, the 19lh Kentucky volunteers. Colonel 
Landram, was temporarily detached from the 27th brigade, and placed under 
my command. It remained encamped in the Clear creek road, some two miles 
from the Moss House. As the rebels were known to have a very considerable 
force at Cumberland gap, it was necessary to use the utmost care to guard 
against an attack from greatly superior numbers. Captain Roper, with his com- 
pany of cavalry, was constantly employed upon the gap road, and performed the 
duty assigned him in the most creditable manner. I would take this opportu 
nity of expressing my high commendation of the captain for his untiring en- 
ergy and zeal. 

Owing to delay in obtaining transportation I was imable to take up the line 
of march in the direction of Lambdiu's until the 11th instant, on the morning 
of which day the column was put in motion, according to your orders. Captain 
S. S. Lyon, acting topographical engineer, had the road blockaded in our rear 
as we advanced. 

We bivouacked on the first night on Poplar creek, some twelve miles from 
our starting point, having experienced no little difficulty in getting the artillery 
and long train over the Pine mountains. At 2 p. m. on the 12lh instant we 
reached Lambdin's and encamped with the forces, (except the 19th Kentucky, 
which proceeded on to Boston.) At Lambdin's I was met by a courier from 
the commanding general with orders to march my forces to Williamsburg, 
Whitely county. During the afternoon I was joined by the balance' of my 
brigade, consisting of the 3d Kentucky, Colonel Garrard, and 49th Indiana, 
Lieutenant Colonel Kegwin. 

On the morning of the 13th instant I was directed by the commanding 
general to proceed with my whole command to Big Creek gap, via Boston, and 
from thence to join him and the remainder of the brigade at Rogers's gap, 
Powell's valley. East Tennessee. My force now consisted of the following 
troops : 1st East Tennessee, Colonel Byrd ; 2d East Tennessee, Colonel Carter ; 
3d Kentucky, Colonel Garrard ; 49th Indiana, Lieutenant Colonel Kegwin; 19th 
Kentucky, Colonel Landram ; 4th East Tennessee, Colonel Johnson, and 
Lanphere's battery. Encamped that evening at Boston, and on the morning of 
the 14th instant left for Big Creek gap. Daring the day I was again joined by 
Captain Roper's company of cavalry, which I had ordei-ed up from Williams- 
burg, whither it had gone by your orders. The head of the column arrived at 
the foot of the Pine mountains about 9 a. m. and commenced the ascent. 

By the united exertions of all the troops, and the most untiring industry 
during the day and night, all the artillery and trains made the ascent and de- 
scent of the mountain by 9 a. m. of the 15th instant. To one who has not 
passed over the route it would be hard to imugine the difficulties to be over- 
come in transporting artillery and a heavy baggage train over it ; but officers 
and men, eager to meet their rebel enemies and gain an entrance into long 
looked-for East Tennessee, went to work with the greatest energy, and by main 



REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. lo 

strength carried wagons and artillery over a road wliicli many would pronounce 
impassable to either. 

On the following morning (15th) I received a despatch from Brigadier General 
Spears, dated Big Creek gap, sunrise, stating that' his pickets were then en- 
gaging the enemy, and requesting me to come up rapidly to his support. 

The order was given to advance, and so eager were the men to get in front 
of the enemy, that, notwithstanding the fatigue and hardships of the preceding 
day and night, a portion of the force crossed Little Cumberland mountain, and 
before mex'idian had made a junction with Brigadier General Spears at Big 
Creek gap, a distance of ten miles from their camping grounds of that morning. 
The 4th Tennessee, Colonel Johnson, was ordered to join General Spears, 
(to whose brigade he belonged.) 

On the morning of the 16th instant I left Big Creek gap with my command 
and moved up Powell's valley, through Fincastle, and in the afternoon of same 
day reported the arrival of my force to the commanding general. On my way 
up the valley we found a quantity of rebel stores (belonging to the 30th Ala- 
bama regiment) at the house of a Mr. A. Kincaid, which I had destroyed. 

In closing this report, I must express my admiration, not only for the zeal 
and pel-severance of the officers and men under my command, but for their un- 
complaining, orderly, and soldierly deportment during the whole march. 

Notwithstanding the fears which have been felt by some that, owing to the 
great wrong and barbarities to which the Tennessee soldiei's and their families 
have been subjected by the rebel troops and their sympathizers, that there 
would be much trouble in restraining them from wreaking vengeance upon their 
enemies, I do not know of a single instance in which they failed to conduct 
themselves as soldiers of the Uliion should from the day we reached Big Creek 
gap until we joined the other forces at Rogers's gap. 
Respectfully, &c., 

S. P. CARTER, 
Brigadier General, ('ommanding 2ith Brigade. 

Captain C. 0. Joline, A. A. G. 

Headquarters 1st Division, 

Cumberland Gap, June 24, 1862. 
A correct copy. 

E. D. SAUNDERS, A. D. C. 



Headquarters 25th Brigade, Army of the Ohio, 

Cumberland Gap, June 24, 1862. 
Captain : In obedience to instructions of June 10, 1862, I proceeded with 
my command, (then composed of the 3d, 5th and 6th regiments Tennessee 
volunteers, commanded, respectively, by Colonels Houk, Shelly and Cooper,) by 
way of Big Creek gap, in order to join Brigadier General Morgan at Speedwell. 
The advance of my command, after having opened and removed a heavy block- 
ade through Pine and Cumberland mountains, entered the gap on the evening 
of the 11th, at which point my pickets were fired on by the pickets of the 
enemy, which resulted in a pretty heavy skirmish as we advanced through the 
gap. The enemy's pickets, lying in ambush, contested our advance, and fired 
upon us from rocks and other places of concealment they had prepared to defend 
that place, but the enemy was rej)ulsed and driven from their ambuscade and from 
the gap, with the loss of two killed and several reported wounded. On that 
evening we advanced through the gap, and it being dusk, my men lay upon 
their arms and rested until next morning. On next morning the opening of the 
blockade was resumed, and the work continued until 12 o'clock that day, during 



14 REPOKT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

which time the enemy's cavahy pickets and my advance pickets kept up a 
heavy skii-mish, which resulted in the capture of three rebel cavalrymen, their 
horses and equipments, and two or three rebel citizens who were aiding the 
rebel enemy in the picket skirmishes. At 12 o'clock, the blockade being opened, 
and the rear of my train having arrived, the whole command and transportation 
were ordered to renew the march to join General Morgan at Speedwell. After 
having passed through the gap and turned up the valley, the advance train 
was ordered to halt, and the rear ordered to close up. While said order was 
being executed, the advance of the train was charged upon by a considerable 
force of the enemy's cavalry, but they were gallantly repulsed by the 5th regi- 
ment, commanded by Colonel Shelley, and made to retreat in confusion. They 
were pursued by Captain Clingman, (with his company, 5th regiment,) a brave 
and gallant officer, a considerable distance. Captain Clingmair and his men 
succeeded in killing one of the enemy and wounding several others. Captain 
Clingman returned with his whole commimd, having captured the enemy's flag 
and divers articles of clothing and other articles. After which we continued 
the line of march, and had proceeded about four miles up the valley. Colonel 
Honk commanding the front and Colonel Cooper protecting the rear of my 
transportation, at which place I was overtaken by a courier bearing a despatch 
which directed me to return to Big Creek gap, as it was important that our 
entire force be concentrated at once at Williamsburg ; on the reception of 
Avhich I immediately changed direction and marched in same order back to Big 
Creek gap, and reoccupied my former position that night. On next morning 
I threw my men out in ambush on each side of the road opposite to Big Ci'eek 
ford, and ordered the transportation to be removed to the top of the Cumber- 
land mountain, under a sufficient guard to protect it ; and learning that the 
enemy's cavalry Avas in considerable force advancing in my rear, I kept my men 
there in ambush, and on the mountain, during that day and ensuing night. In 
the early part of the night 1 threw a heavy picket out in the valley, to see, if 
possible, where the enemy was, and in what force, with instructions that if 
attacked they should fall back into the gap, where I had my main force to 
cover their retreat, in which condition we lay that night. On the morning of 
the 15th my pickets were attacked, but they were unable to draw the enemy 
after them ; and seeing that I could not draw them into the ambuscade, and 
knowing tbat my trains were out of their reach, I ordered Colonel Honk, Colonel 
Cooper and Colonel Shelley to pi'oceed into the valley, and advance across the 
same and attack the enemy on the ridge, at which place they seemed to be 
assembled in force. They dicK^so, and succeeded in routing them, driving them 
across Clinch river, and alarming them so much that they filled boats with rails, 
set them on fire, and turned them loose down the river, and retreated towards 
Knoxville. On that day we captured some prisoners, some 60 tents ; burnt 
and destroyed 57, brought three on horseback into camp, and destroyed divers 
articles of camp equipage to the amount of some $800 in value. We also cap- 
tured seve'al rebel flags, drums, swords, &:c., &:c. And in the evening, on our 
return to the valley, 1 received a despatch informing me that the order to march 
to Williamsburg Avas countermanded, and that I Avas ordered to join General 
Morgan at SpeedAvell, at the earliest practicable moment, in order that our forces 
on this side might be concentrated for the purpose of attacking Cumberland 
gap. It then being dark, or about it, I threw out picket guards, and remained 
in the gap during that night. On the following morning having been joined 
by the 24th brigade, commanded by General Carter, in obedience to said order, 
at 4 o'clock I took up the line of march, and on same evening arrived at Rogers's 
gap. No particular incident Avorthy of note occurred during the march. 

As we passed along we were frequently greeted by groups of citizens along 
the road, both ladies and gentlemen, Avho had heretofore acted Avith the seces- 
sion party, Avho expressed their great joy and satisfaction on the aiTival of our 



EEPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 15 

army, and wlao stated that they had been deceived, but that they were glad our 
army had come to relieve them from the oppression and thraldom which had 
borne them down, and invited the officers to visit their houses and families and 
partake of such refreshments as they had; which, judging from all that I could 
see, was generously given and thankfully received. 

On the way, however, having learned from reliable sources that two citizens, 
William D. Sharp and James Cooper, were imcompromising secessionists, and 
had been, and were then, endeavoring to excite the people to rebcdlion, I had 
them arrested and carried them to Rogers's gap, where, on the next morning, I 
transferred them, together with the prisoners and property taken at Big Creek 
gap, over to General Morgan's disposal. On the 15th, where, after resting one 
day, having received orders from General Morgan, I, Avith my command, to- 
gether with the commands of Generals De Courcy, Baird, and Carter, took up 
the line of march at 1 o'clock for the purpose of attacking the enemy, who 
was then said to be encamped in force at or near one Thomas's. The place 
assigned me in the order of march was forty-five minutes in rear of General 
Carter's brigade, which marched up what is called the new Valley road. But 
before arriving at said place, it was ascertained that the enemy had abandoned 
it under great confusion, and made their way some said towards Cumberland 
gap, some towards Knoxville, and others towards Morristown. 

After resting a while at said place, we were ordered to take up the line of 
march towards Cumberland gap in order to attack the enemy there, but before 
arriving at that point it was ascertained that the enemy had abandoned it and 
fled towards the railroad in utter confusion, after having first burned and de- 
stroyed all their commissary and provision stores, tents, camp equipage, &c., &c. 
They left some artillery and other small arms. 

General De Courcy lia\ing first arrived with his brigade on that evening, 
after having marched some twenty miles, proceeded to the top of the mountain, 
raised the glorious old flag of our country, and . fired a salute from Captain 
Foster's battery in honor of the brilliant success achieved by valor, energy, and 
patriotism of our officers and soldiers. 

It would be unjust to close this report without according to Adjutant D. A. 
Carpenter, of the 2d regiment Tennessee volunteers, James Edwards, and 
William Cook, who volunteered their services, great pi-aise for the gallant and 
efficient services rendered me in all my movements and marches. Their valor, 
patriotism, and untiring zeal and energy are worthy of note and thanks. 

The officers and men, and all under my command, with promptness, energy, 
and zeal executed at all times every order and command given to them by me, 
and my warmest thanks are accorded to them, one and all. 

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

JAMES G. SPEARS, 
Brig. Gen., Com'd'g 25t/i Brigade, Army of the Ohio. 

Captain Charles O. Jolinb, 

Assistant Adjutant Gcticral. 

Headquarters Seventh DivisroN, 

Cumberland Gap, June 24, 1S62. 
A correct copy. 

E. D. SAUNDERS, 

Aide-de- Camj). 



Headquarters Twenty-sixth Brigade, 

Cumherland Gaj), .June 20, 1862. 
Captain : In accordance with the order just received, I hei-eby submit to 
you, for the information of Brigadier General Morgan, the following report of 



16 REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

the march of the troops under my command from the Moss House, Cumberland 
ford, to this point. 

The march began on the 7th instant, at 4 o'clock a. m., when I moved the 
26tli brigade, composed of the 16tli regiment Ohio volunteers, 22d regiment 
Kentucky volunteers, and the 42d regiment Ohio volunteers, a distance of eight 
miles. This march, as well as those on the following day, was necessarily 
short in consequence of the great difficulties encountered in moving the wagon 
trains over very steep hills and very bad roads. 

On the following day I marched the brigade thirteen miles. On this march 
I had to detail three hundred men to assist the wagon train. 

The last two of the eight miles marched on the 9th were full of difficulties, 
and the train was baited for eight hours, during which time the brigade was 
employed in constructing an almost entirely new line of road. On reaching 
camping ground that night I found myself in such a narrow gorge and so near 
*the mountains that I deemed it common prudence to send forward six compa- 
nies to take possession of all the defiles leading into that part of Powell's val- 
ley opposite Wilson's and Rogers's gaps. I intrusted this duty to Lieutenant 
Colonel Pardee, of 42d regiment Ohio volunteers, who performed it in a manner 
Avhicli gave proof of his energy and military skill. When the enemy's pickets 
attempted early in the morning to crown the mountains with their videttes, 
they were repulsed, with a loss of three horses, which they left in their hurried 
retreat. 

The march on the 10th instant offered few difficulties, and at eight o'clock 
a. m. the brigade was encamped at the foot of the mountain. With as little 
delay as possible, the work of clearing the heavy blockade was begun and 
completed, under the able direction of Lieutenant Colonel Monroe, 22d regiment 
Kentucky volunteers, by 2 o'clock next day, and on the evening of that day 
the i26th brigade bivouacked on the south side of Hogers's gap. 

The halt made here, and the partial countermarch which took place, being 
matters which concern the division, are out of my province, and need not form 
part of the report. The skirmishes which took place betwixt the enemy's 
cavalry and the pickets of my brigade were not of sufficient importance to 
demand more than a passing notice. 

On the 18th instant I resumed the march. The force inider my command 
being increased by fifty cavalry, Foster's battery of eight 10-pounders rifled 
guns, and the siege battery of two 30-pounders and two 20-pounders, rifled. 

The enemy being supposed to have taken up a strong position at Thomas's 
farm, and my orders being to attack him before General Carter, who was march- 
ing on a parallel but longer line than the one I was operating on, could debouch, 
I moved with the amount of celerity which I deemed would enable me to attain 
the object in view. I reached the point indicated, but found the enemy had 
retreated early in the morning. 

After reposing the troops 1 moved on slowly, to enable the cavalry advanced 
guard to examine the woods, which were constantly presenting themselves on 
my flanks, and from under whose cover, I had been informed, I might at any 
moment expect an attack from the enemy posted in ambush. 

Finally, after a march of nearly twenty miles, I reached Cumberland gap, 
which I found the enemy had evacuated during the previous night ; its rear 
guard having left only three hours before the arrival of my advanced guard. 
Before sunset the flags of the 26th brigade flaunted over the far-fiimed fortifi- 
cations, and Foster's battery, firing a salute of thirty-four guns, told in loud 
tones to the persecuted people of East Tennessee that they were free, for once 
more the stars and stripes Avere near to protect and encourage them in their 
loyalty. 

Thus, by this able and daring strategic move, the chain of victory is now 
without solution of continuity on the Kentucky line, from Columbus to Louisa. 



REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 17 

In coucluding this report, it becomes my most pleasing duty to request you 
to mention to the general commanding that the many difficulties and fatigues 
of this march were met, endured, and overcome by the officers, non-commis- 
sioned officers, and privates under my command, with a cheerful spirit and an 
energy of action which speaks well for their patriotism and soldierlike qualities. 

The officers of my personal staff displayed great activity, perseverance and 
intelligence, in seeing my orders carried out ; and it is a matter of satisfaction 
to me to find this opportunity of making prominent mention of Lieutenant 
Cushmau Cunningham, 16th regiment Ohio volunteers, acting assistant adjutant 
general; Lieutenant George W. Stein, 16th regiment Ohio volunteers, acting 
aide-de-camp ; Lieutenant Joseph D. Stubbs, 4^d regiment Ohio volunteers, act- 
ing brigade quartermaster, to whose untiring activity in bringing up subsistence, 
notwithstanding all difficulties, I feel I owe much of tlie power which enabled 
the 26th brigade to keep ahead of the division, without at any moment causing 
hindrance to the brigades in rear. Lieutenant Stubbs appears to acquire addi- 
tional strength with every increase to his labors, and additional courage to 
overcome difficulties as they accumulate before him. 

The duties of the cavalry advanced guard were well performed under the 
direction of Captain Roper, of Colonel Munday's regiment. 

Captain Roper possesses in an eminent degree the qualities which form a 
good light cavalry officer. 

Colonel Daniel W. Lindsey, 22d regiment Kentucky volunteers ; Colonel 
Lionel A. Sheldon, 42d regiment Ohio volunteers, and Lieutenant Colonel 
George W. Bailey, 16th regiment Ohio volunteers, were at all times full of zeal, 
and ever ready to execute any of my orders. 1 must regret that the sudden 
evacuation of the gap should have deprived these officers of an opportunity 
which would ever have redounded to their honor. 

Lieutenant Colonel Don. A. Pardee, 42d regiment Ohio volunteers, and Lieu- 
tenant Colonel George W. Monroe, 22d regiment Kentucky volunteers, have 
already been honorably noticed in the body of this report. 

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

JOHN DE COURCY, 
Colonel, Commanding 26lh Brigade. 

Captain Charles 0. Joline, 

Assistant Adjutant General. 

Headquarters Seventh Division, 

June 21, 1862. 
A correct copy. 

E. D. SAUNDERS, 

Aide-de- Camp. 



Headquarters 27th Brigade, 7th Division, Army of the Ohio, 

Cumberland Gap, June 21, 1862. 
Captain: I have the honor to submit the fillowing report concerning the 
march of my brigade from Cumberland ford to this place. 

One of my regiments, the i9th Kentucky, Colonel Landram, being detached, 
and afterwards making the march Avith General Carter, I moved from the camp 
on the morning of Sunday, the 7th instant, with the 33d Indiana, Colonel Co- 
burn, and the 14th Kentucky, Colonel Cochran, and after three days of severe 
labor, encamped at the foot of the mountain, north of Rogers's gap. The length 
of this march was thirty-two miles, but its difficulty, arising from the character 
of the country and condition of the roads, was so great as to require many men 
at each wagon to assist in getting it along. 
H. Ex. Doc. 94 2 



18 EEPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 

Resting during the diy of Wediie5day, wliile the blockade upan the moixnt- 
aiii was being i-emoved, I commenced its passage at sunset upon that evening, 
and at midnight took up a position bj the side of Colonel De Courcy, in 
Powell's valley, near Rogers's house. A large detachment of my men assisted 
during the night in the ai-duous duty of bringing over the artillery. 

On the morning of Thursday I learned that peremptory orders required the 
return of General Morgan to the north side of the mountains. Previous to 
moving in that direction, howevei", I marched my brigade, accompanied by 
Wlietmore's battery and Munday's cavalry, for some distance down the valley, 
with the double object of procuring forage and examining the country. The 
day was exti-emely hot, and my men returned much fatigued, yet at three 
p. m., having previously sent forward to have the train carried to the rear, and 
made a detachment of two hundred men to aid the artillery,' my command was 
again upon the march to the rear, and during the following day reached Lamb- 
din's, eighteen miles distant from the valley. Scarcely had I arrived at this 
place, when subsequent orders made a return of thedivisidn to Pow(drs valley 
necessar3% and on Sunday evening, in compliance with instructions from the 
commanding general, I was again encamped at Rodgers's house. By this time 
the effect of severe labor began to be apparent; the feet of many were blistered, 
and those not naturally robust had given out.- Our scanty supply of eight days' 
rations was, moreover, exhausted; yet the men, pleased at the idea of moving 
towards the enemy, did not complain. 

After two days' rest, duiing which I was joined by Colonel Landram, with 
his fine regiment, eager for a passage Avith the enemy, and further strengthened 
by Wetmore's battery, and Captain IMartin's company of cavalry to act as a 
rear guard, we again advanced, without bread, M'ith coffee for a single meal, and 
no other food but the fresh beef which we drove along, expecting to meet and 
fight the enemy, whose numbers equalled our own, in a position which had been 
selected in rear of Cumberland gap. On our approach, however, this position, 
as well as the stronghold for which we had so long been striving, were aban- 
doned, and on the evening of the 18th instant we entered and took possession. 

I have in this connexion to commend to the notice of the commanding gen- 
eral the patient fortitude with which my men, without the stimulus and eclat of 
successful battle, and notwithstanding the discouraging effects of our counter- 
march, endured the privations they were called upon to encounter. I beg that 
he Avill also remember the zeal, intelligence, and efficiency with which the officers 
in command of troops, as well as those of the staff, contributed in carrying for- 
ward the work on which we were engaged. They, one and all, merit iny thanks. 
Had the identical results which have been achieved been consequent upon a 
severe struggle, with heavy loss of life, they Avould have received a reward 
which they cau now only look for in the satisfaction of having done their duty. 

To the officers in command of regiments. Colonels Coburn, Landram, and 
Cochran, I am especially indebted, and had the opportunity of a battle offered 
itself, the activity and soldierly qualities Avhich they displayed, whether in 
bringing forward their commands or in preparing for the attacks in the flank 
and rear, to which our march Avas exposed, would, I am sure, have brought 
reputation both to themselves and their regiments. 

Without making individual distinctions between the other officers, I must 
mention by name Lieutenant Colonel Gallop, 14th Kentucky, and Major 
Manker, 33d Indiana, Avho, outside of their regimental duties, gave great 
assistance in procuring the supplies, without Avliich we could not have marclied. 
I should likewise be negligent did I omit to name the officers of my staff, Cap- 
tain B. H. Polk, acting assistant adjutant general, Lieutenants S. A. Elkin and 
John Cochran, aides-de-camp, and Lieutenant H. B. Finch, acting assistant 



REPORT OF GENERAL G. W. MORGAN. 19 

quartermaster, whose services were invaluable. During the march I lost one 
man, Corporal Enos C. Hadley, 33d Indiana, who died from exhaustion. ' 
I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant, 

A. BAIRD, 
. ^ ^ Brigadier General, Commanding- 27th Brigade. 

Captaui C. O. JoLl.XE, 

Assistant Adjutant General, Headquarters Itli Division. 

Headquartkrs 7th Divisio.\, Army of the Ohfo, 

Cumberland Gap, June 22, 1862. 
A correct copy. 

CHAS. S. MEDARY, 
Lieutenant, A. D. C. 







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